STATEMENT FROM SENATE MAJORITY LEADER JOHN J. FLANAGAN ON BDS LEGISLATION

I applaud Governor Cuomo for taking action to prohibit the state from doing business with companies that seek to harm Israel, our trusted friend and greatest ally. Led by the Senate Republican Conference, our chamber approved legislation in January to accomplish this worthy goal.

The bill (S6378A), sponsored by Senator Jack Martins and Senator Simcha Felder, expands existing state law to prevent New York from entering into a state contract or investment with those seeking to economically harm American allies.

While I always believe that the Legislature and Executive should work together through the normal legislative process to get things done, it had become increasingly clear that the Assembly wasn't ready to join us on this critical issue. By signing this Executive order today, the Governor sends a strong message to the entire country--New York will continue to stand with the state of Israel and the Jewish people, and protect our shared national interests.”